10631121

Tracking Device Operation in Safety-Classified Zone

PublishedApril 21, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A method for locating a tracking device, comprising: accessing, by a central tracking system, information describing each of one or more geographic regions, each geographic region associated with a geographic boundary and a tracking device configuration mode selected based on a likelihood that the tracking device will be lost within the geographic boundary; determining, by the central tracking system, that a user of the tracking device is located within a first geographic boundary of a first geographic region; identifying, by the central tracking system, the tracking device configuration mode associated with the first geographic region; and providing, by the central tracking system, an instruction to a mobile device of the user to configure the tracking device to operate in the identified tracking device operating mode, the mobile device configured to, in response to receiving the instruction, configure the tracking device to operate in the identified tracking device configuration mode.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for optimizing the tracking of a portable device based on geographic location. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of using a single tracking configuration for all environments, which may lead to unnecessary power consumption or reduced tracking accuracy in areas where the device is more likely to be lost. The solution involves a central tracking system that accesses data describing multiple geographic regions, each defined by a boundary and a specific tracking configuration mode tailored to the likelihood of device loss in that area. When a user enters a region, the system identifies the appropriate configuration mode for that area and sends an instruction to the user's mobile device to adjust the tracking device's settings accordingly. The mobile device then configures the tracking device to operate in the specified mode, which may include adjustments to tracking frequency, signal strength, or other parameters to balance power usage and tracking effectiveness. This dynamic adaptation ensures optimal performance based on the user's location, improving battery life and reliability in high-risk areas.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein a home of the user is located within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for location-based services involves determining a user's geographic region and providing context-aware functionality based on that location. The invention addresses the challenge of delivering relevant services or information to users by dynamically adjusting operations based on their precise geographic position. The method includes detecting the user's current location and identifying a first geographic region where the user is present. The system then performs a specific action or provides a service tailored to that region. In an enhanced implementation, the user's home is located within this first geographic region, allowing the system to offer personalized or location-specific features such as automated home control, security monitoring, or localized notifications. The method may also involve transitioning between different geographic regions, triggering additional context-aware adjustments. The invention improves user experience by ensuring services adapt seamlessly to the user's environment, whether at home or in other designated areas. The system may integrate with various devices or networks to enable real-time location tracking and service delivery.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first geographic region comprises a city, town, or neighborhood in which the user lives.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for location-based content delivery involves determining a user's geographic location and providing content tailored to that location. The method identifies a first geographic region where the user resides, such as a city, town, or neighborhood, and a second geographic region where the user is currently located. The system then selects content relevant to the user's current location while considering their home region. For example, if the user is traveling, the system may provide local news, events, or services from the current location but may also include content related to the user's home region, such as local news or community updates. The system dynamically adjusts content delivery based on the user's movement between regions, ensuring relevance to both the current and home locations. This approach enhances user experience by providing contextually appropriate information while maintaining a connection to the user's primary geographic area. The method may involve real-time location tracking, content filtering, and personalized recommendations to improve engagement and utility.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first geographic region is defined by the user.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for managing geographic regions in a digital mapping or location-based service involves defining and utilizing user-specified geographic boundaries. The method allows a user to select and customize a first geographic region, which can then be used for various applications such as navigation, location tracking, or service delivery. The user-defined region may be adjusted dynamically based on real-time data or user input, ensuring flexibility in how the region is applied. The system may also compare the user-defined region with predefined geographic boundaries or other user-defined regions to determine overlaps, adjacencies, or other spatial relationships. This enables precise control over geographic data, improving accuracy in location-based services and applications. The method may be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination thereof, and can be integrated into existing mapping or navigation systems. The user-defined region can be stored, retrieved, and modified as needed, allowing for adaptive and personalized geographic management. This approach enhances user experience by providing tailored geographic boundaries for various use cases, such as delivery zones, service areas, or restricted access regions.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the identified tracking device operating mode comprises a signal transmission rate selected based on the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A tracking system monitors and adjusts the signal transmission rate of a tracking device based on the risk of loss in a specific geographic area. The system determines the likelihood of loss by analyzing user behavior, environmental factors, or historical data within the first geographic region. If the risk is high, the tracking device increases its signal transmission rate to improve location accuracy and reduce the chance of losing the device. Conversely, if the risk is low, the transmission rate may decrease to conserve power. The system dynamically adjusts the transmission rate in real-time as the user moves through different regions, ensuring optimal performance and battery efficiency. This adaptive approach enhances tracking reliability while extending the device's operational lifespan. The method may also incorporate additional tracking device modes, such as sleep or active tracking, to further optimize performance based on usage conditions. The system ensures continuous monitoring and adjustment of the tracking device's operation to balance accuracy and power consumption effectively.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the selected signal transmission rate increases as the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region increases.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for dynamically adjusting signal transmission rates in a tracking device to optimize battery life while maintaining reliable tracking. The invention addresses the problem of balancing power consumption and tracking accuracy in portable tracking devices, particularly when users may lose the device in a specific geographic region. The method involves monitoring the likelihood of device loss within a predefined geographic area and dynamically increasing the signal transmission rate as this likelihood rises. This ensures that the device transmits location data more frequently when the risk of loss is higher, improving the chances of recovery while conserving battery power when the risk is low. The system may use historical data, user behavior patterns, or environmental factors to assess the likelihood of loss. The transmission rate adjustment is automated, ensuring real-time responsiveness to changing conditions. This approach is particularly useful for tracking devices used in high-risk environments or by users prone to misplacing items. The invention enhances the reliability of tracking systems without requiring manual intervention, making it suitable for applications such as asset tracking, personal safety devices, and logistics management.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the identified tracking device operating mode comprises a rate of power consumption selected based on the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A tracking device is configured to adjust its operating mode based on the likelihood of being lost within a specific geographic region. The device monitors its location and determines the probability of loss by analyzing factors such as user behavior, environmental conditions, or historical data. If the risk of loss is high, the device enters a power-saving mode to conserve battery life, reducing features like location updates or signal strength. Conversely, if the risk is low, the device operates in a higher-power mode, maintaining full functionality. The power consumption rate is dynamically adjusted to balance battery life and tracking accuracy. This adaptive approach ensures the device remains operational longer when loss is likely, while optimizing performance when loss is unlikely. The system may also incorporate user preferences or external data sources to refine loss probability assessments. The method improves battery efficiency without compromising tracking reliability, particularly in high-risk scenarios.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing executable computer instructions that, when executed by a processor, perform steps comprising: accessing information describing each of one or more geographic regions, each geographic region associated with a geographic boundary and a tracking device configuration mode selected based on a likelihood that a tracking device will be lost within the geographic boundary; determining that a user of the tracking device is located within a first geographic boundary of a first geographic region; identifying the tracking device configuration mode associated with the first geographic region; and providing an instruction to a mobile device of the user to configure the tracking device to operate in the identified tracking device operating mode, the mobile device configured to, in response to receiving the instruction, configure the tracking device to operate in the identified tracking device configuration mode.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a system for dynamically configuring tracking devices based on geographic regions to reduce the likelihood of device loss. The system addresses the problem of tracking devices being lost or misplaced in certain high-risk areas, such as crowded public spaces or remote locations, where the probability of loss is higher. The solution involves a computer-readable storage medium containing instructions that, when executed, perform steps to manage tracking device configurations based on geographic boundaries. The system accesses data describing one or more geographic regions, each defined by a boundary and a tracking device configuration mode. The configuration mode is selected based on the likelihood of a tracking device being lost within that boundary. For example, in high-risk areas, the tracking device may be set to a more frequent or aggressive tracking mode, while in low-risk areas, it may operate in a power-saving mode. When a user enters a geographic boundary, the system detects their location, identifies the associated configuration mode, and sends an instruction to the user's mobile device. The mobile device then configures the tracking device to operate in the specified mode, ensuring optimal tracking behavior based on the user's environment. This approach enhances tracking reliability while conserving power in low-risk areas.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 , wherein a home of the user is located within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for location-based data processing involves determining a user's geographic region and providing location-specific data or services. The invention addresses the need for personalized, context-aware digital experiences by dynamically adjusting content, notifications, or functionality based on the user's physical location. The system identifies a first geographic region where the user is currently located and retrieves or processes data associated with that region. For example, if the user's home is within this region, the system may prioritize home-related services, such as smart home controls, local news, or neighborhood alerts. The system may also compare the user's current location to predefined geographic boundaries to trigger location-specific actions, such as adjusting device settings or delivering targeted advertisements. The invention ensures seamless integration with existing digital platforms by using standard data storage and processing techniques, including non-transitory computer-readable storage media to store location data, user preferences, and regional configurations. The solution enhances user convenience by automating location-aware tasks without requiring manual input, improving efficiency and personalization in digital interactions.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 , wherein the first geographic region comprises a city, town, or neighborhood in which the user lives.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to location-based data processing systems that analyze user behavior within specific geographic regions. The problem addressed is the need to accurately identify and process user activities in areas where the user resides, such as cities, towns, or neighborhoods, to provide personalized services or insights. The system involves a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing instructions that, when executed, perform operations including determining a first geographic region where the user lives and a second geographic region where the user is currently located. The system then compares the user's activities in the second region to a baseline of activities in the first region to generate insights or recommendations. The comparison may involve analyzing differences in behavior, such as spending habits, movement patterns, or service usage, between the two regions. The system may also adjust the baseline over time based on changes in the user's activities in the first region. This approach enables the system to provide context-aware recommendations or alerts tailored to the user's residential and current locations, improving the relevance of services or notifications. The invention enhances location-based services by dynamically adapting to the user's living environment and current context.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 , wherein the first geographic region is defined by the user.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for managing geographic regions in a computer-implemented environment involves defining and utilizing user-specified geographic boundaries to control access, permissions, or operations within those areas. The invention addresses the need for flexible, user-defined geographic constraints in applications such as location-based services, access control, or data filtering. A user can input coordinates, boundaries, or other parameters to create a first geographic region, which is then stored and processed by the system. The system may also compare the user-defined region against other geographic data, such as device locations or predefined zones, to determine overlaps, intersections, or containment relationships. This allows for dynamic adjustments to system behavior based on the user's specified region. The invention may be applied in various fields, including navigation, security, or resource management, where precise geographic control is required. The user-defined region can be adjusted or modified over time, ensuring adaptability to changing requirements. The system ensures that the geographic region is accurately represented and processed, enabling reliable decision-making based on spatial relationships.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 , wherein the identified tracking device operating mode comprises a signal transmission rate selected based on the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A system for optimizing tracking device performance in a geographic region involves dynamically adjusting signal transmission rates based on the likelihood of device loss. The system monitors user behavior and environmental factors to assess the risk of losing a tracking device, such as a wearable or asset tracker, within a defined area. If the risk is high, the system increases the signal transmission rate to improve location accuracy and recovery chances. Conversely, if the risk is low, the transmission rate may be reduced to conserve power. The system may also adjust other operational parameters, such as signal strength or update frequency, to balance performance and efficiency. The tracking device may communicate with a network or a central server to receive updates on optimal settings. This approach ensures reliable tracking while extending battery life, particularly in scenarios where device loss is probable, such as in crowded or high-risk environments. The solution is applicable to personal tracking devices, asset management systems, and other applications where location monitoring is critical.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 12 , wherein the selected signal transmission rate increases as the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region increases.

Plain English Translation

A system for dynamically adjusting signal transmission rates in tracking devices to optimize battery life while ensuring reliable location monitoring. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing power consumption with tracking accuracy, particularly in scenarios where a user may lose a tracking device within a monitored geographic region. The system evaluates the likelihood of device loss based on contextual factors such as user behavior, environmental conditions, or historical data. As the risk of loss increases, the system automatically raises the signal transmission rate to enhance tracking precision, ensuring the device remains locatable. Conversely, when the risk is low, the transmission rate decreases to conserve battery power. The system may also incorporate adaptive algorithms that refine the likelihood assessment over time, improving efficiency. This approach ensures reliable tracking without unnecessary power drain, extending the device's operational lifespan while maintaining location accuracy when needed most. The invention is particularly useful for personal or asset tracking in environments where loss risk varies dynamically.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 8 , wherein the identified tracking device operating mode comprises a rate of power consumption selected based on the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for optimizing power consumption in tracking devices, particularly for devices used to locate lost items. The invention addresses the challenge of balancing power efficiency with the need for reliable tracking, especially in scenarios where the likelihood of loss is high. The system dynamically adjusts the operating mode of a tracking device based on the probability that the device will be lost within a specific geographic region. This adjustment includes selecting a power consumption rate that ensures sufficient tracking capability while minimizing unnecessary energy use. The system may also incorporate additional features such as determining the geographic region based on user behavior, historical data, or environmental factors, and adjusting the tracking device's mode accordingly. By dynamically managing power consumption, the system extends the device's operational lifespan and improves tracking reliability in high-risk loss scenarios. The invention is particularly useful for tracking devices attached to frequently misplaced or lost items, such as keys, wallets, or electronic devices.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. A system for locating a tracking device, comprising: a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing executable instructions that, when executed, cause steps to be performed by the system comprising: accessing information describing each of one or more geographic regions, each geographic region associated with a geographic boundary and a tracking device configuration mode selected based on a likelihood that a tracking device will be lost within the geographic boundary; determining that a user of the tracking device is located within a first geographic boundary of a first geographic region; identifying the tracking device configuration mode associated with the first geographic region; and providing an instruction to a mobile device of the user to configure the tracking device to operate in the identified tracking device operating mode, the mobile device configured to, in response to receiving the instruction, configure the tracking device to operate in the identified tracking device configuration mode.

Plain English Translation

A system for dynamically adjusting the operating mode of a tracking device based on geographic location to reduce the likelihood of loss. The system addresses the problem of tracking devices being lost or misplaced in certain high-risk areas, such as crowded public spaces or remote locations, where standard tracking settings may be insufficient. The system includes a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing executable instructions that, when executed, perform several steps. First, the system accesses information about one or more geographic regions, each defined by a boundary and a specific tracking device configuration mode. The configuration mode is selected based on the likelihood of a tracking device being lost within that region. For example, a high-risk area may trigger a more frequent or aggressive tracking mode, while a low-risk area may use a power-saving mode. When a user enters a geographic boundary of a region, the system detects their location, identifies the associated tracking device configuration mode, and sends an instruction to the user's mobile device. The mobile device then configures the tracking device to operate in the specified mode, ensuring optimal tracking performance based on the current environment. This adaptive approach enhances tracking reliability while conserving power in low-risk areas.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The system of claim 15 , wherein a home of the user is located within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing user access to digital content based on geographic location involves determining a user's current location and a home location within a first geographic region. The system restricts access to certain digital content when the user is outside the first geographic region, ensuring compliance with regional licensing or regulatory requirements. The system may also track the user's movement between geographic regions and adjust access permissions accordingly. Additionally, the system can detect when the user is within a second geographic region and automatically update access permissions to reflect the user's new location. The system may include a database storing geographic region data, user location data, and content access rules, along with a processor that enforces these rules by granting or denying access based on the user's current location. The system ensures that digital content is only accessible in authorized regions, preventing unauthorized access from restricted areas. The system may also provide notifications to the user when access is restricted or when entering a new geographic region. The home location of the user is used as a reference point to determine the first geographic region, ensuring that the user's primary residence is considered when applying access rules.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The system of claim 15 , wherein the first geographic region comprises a city, town, or neighborhood in which the user lives.

Plain English Translation

A system for location-based data processing involves determining a user's geographic region to provide relevant information or services. The system identifies a first geographic region where the user resides, such as a city, town, or neighborhood, and a second geographic region where the user is currently located. The system then processes data associated with these regions to generate outputs tailored to the user's context. For example, the system may compare data from the user's home region with data from their current location to provide recommendations, alerts, or other location-specific insights. The system may also analyze historical data from the user's home region to predict trends or behaviors in the current location. This approach enhances personalization by leveraging both static and dynamic geographic information. The system can be applied in various domains, such as navigation, local services, or targeted advertising, where understanding a user's relationship to different geographic areas improves functionality. The invention addresses the challenge of providing contextually relevant information by dynamically integrating multiple geographic data sources.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The system of claim 15 , wherein the first geographic region is defined by the user.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing geographic regions in a digital mapping or location-based service defines a first geographic region based on user input. The system allows users to specify boundaries or parameters for the region, which can then be used for various applications such as navigation, location tracking, or service delivery. The user-defined region may be adjusted dynamically or saved for future use. The system may also include additional features such as real-time updates, boundary validation, or integration with other geographic data sources to ensure accuracy and relevance. This approach enables personalized and flexible geographic management, improving user experience and operational efficiency in location-based services.

Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The system of claim 15 , wherein the identified tracking device operating mode comprises a signal transmission rate selected based on the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A tracking system monitors and manages tracking devices within a defined geographic region. The system determines the operational mode of a tracking device based on the likelihood that the user may lose the device within the monitored area. The operational mode includes adjusting the signal transmission rate of the tracking device. A higher transmission rate may be used if the likelihood of loss is high, while a lower rate may be used if the likelihood is low. The system may also include a user interface for configuring tracking parameters, such as defining the geographic region and setting the transmission rate. The tracking device may be a wearable or portable device that communicates with the system to provide location and status updates. The system may also include a database for storing tracking data and a processor for analyzing the data to determine the optimal transmission rate. The goal is to balance power consumption and tracking accuracy based on the risk of loss.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The system of claim 15 , wherein the identified tracking device operating mode comprises a rate of power consumption selected based on the likelihood that the user will lose the tracking device within the first geographic region.

Plain English Translation

A tracking system for monitoring the location of a tracking device within a geographic region includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to determine a likelihood that a user will lose the tracking device within a first geographic region. The system identifies an operating mode for the tracking device based on this likelihood, where the operating mode includes a rate of power consumption. The power consumption rate is selected to balance power efficiency and tracking accuracy, ensuring the device remains functional while minimizing unnecessary power usage. The system may also adjust the tracking device's operating mode based on environmental factors, such as signal strength or interference, to optimize performance. Additionally, the system can transmit alerts or notifications to the user if the tracking device is determined to be at risk of loss or if its battery level falls below a threshold. The system may further include a user interface for configuring tracking parameters, such as sensitivity levels or alert preferences, to tailor the device's operation to the user's needs. The tracking device may operate in different modes, such as low-power mode for extended battery life or high-accuracy mode for precise location tracking, depending on the assessed risk of loss.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

April 21, 2020

Inventors

Arunkumar Puppala
Liuyin Cheng
Wayne Patterson

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